He was born on December 20, 1926 to Henry and Clara Thomas in Portland, Oregon. He was a graduate of Beaverton High School and served in the US Navy.
On August 29, 1948, he married Frances (Stevens) in Portland, Oregon and they resided in Beaverton, Oregon. She preceded him in death on July 8, 2002.
He enjoyed deer hunting, bowling, camping, fishing and many beach trips. In his time residing at Edgewood Downs, he played Bean Bag Baseball (like cornhole). He loved competing with other seniors. Joe and Frances were long time members of the Valley Square Dancers where you would find them on Saturday nights at the Aloha Grange. This includes the Rolling Squares, their traveling group. He was a long-time member of the Masonic Lodge in Beaverton where he was Past Grand Master Mason. He served Meals on Wheels until he was 91.
He was employed with Northwest Natural Gas for 42 years. At the same time, he was a volunteer for the Beaverton Fire Department.
Left to cherish his memory are his children: Carol Bowen, Sharon Egger and Sally Simich; 10 grandchildren; 12 great grandchildren; along with several nieces and nephews.
He is preceded in death by his parents, wife, and brothers, John and Donald Thomas.
In lieu of flower arrangements, please consider a new, unwrapped toy donation for Toy and Joy. He enjoyed being a part of the Toy and Joy community service project through the Beaverton Fire Department. Items will be collected in the Great Hall foyer during the service.
A visitation for Joseph will be held Sunday, November 19, 2023 from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Finley Sunset Hills Mortuary, 6801 SW Sunset Hwy, Portland, OR 97225.
A funeral service will occur Monday, November 20, 2023 at 1:00 PM at Finley Sunset Hills Mortuary, 6801 SW Sunset Hwy, Portland, OR 97225. This service can be viewed online at www.facebook.com/finleysunsethills
A graveside service will immediately follow the funeral at 2:00 PM at Sunset Hills Memorial Park, 6801 SW Sunset Hwy, Portland, OR 97225
A reception with light refreshments will follow the graveside service back at Finley Sunset Hills Mortuary in the Godiva Room.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.finleysunsethills.com for the Thomas family.
